The Weekly Books: Dynamic Friendships
Happy Friday! It’s the middle of summer where I live, so I thought it was time to share some good-natured books. Note: The following may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you purchase through these, but it doesn’t change the price you pay.
The Truly Devious Series by Maureen Johnson: This young adult mystery series takes place at an isolated boarding school in Vermont where each student is admitted based on being really good at or really into a particular thing. Stevie Bell, our protagonist, is really into true crime. And she’s especially determined to solve the murder mystery that haunts the campus. Along the way she befriends Janelle, the mechanical genius who dates other girls, and Nate, the boy who was admitted for the novel he wrote but cannot seem to write book two. Although this series is currently incomplete, this platonic trio is charming and refreshing. There’s sarcasm, encouragement, and trust amidst some crazy circumstances.
Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling: I mean…what to even say? The shared experiences and individual strengths and trust and conflict that all come together to create this beautiful solid lifelong friendship between Ron, Harry, and Hermione is just the best.
Songs About a Girl by Chris Russell: I’ve talked about this series plenty on this blog this year so I figured one more wouldn’t hurt. Charlie and Melissa’s friendship is hilarious, humble, and edifying. They laugh together, build each other up, and admit when they’re wrong and apologize and forgive. This friendship is a totally realistic portrayal of teen girls, but also something for real life teen girls to strive for.
Turtles All the Way Down by John Green: Aza Holmes struggles with spiraling, hypocondriacal thoughts that often impede her ability to do normal teenage things. Over the years her best friend Daisy has stood by and remained constant. Each girl has her own special interests and flaws and for the most part their relationship has been skimming the surface. Throughout this story, as they band together to solve a town mystery some long-term conflicts resurface between the girls, but they are able to communicate and wrestle through some heartfelt conversations. It’s a good model for an age group that is so riddled with drama and shallow friendships.
